Children's Health: Practical Tips for Medicines and Care

Kids are not small adults. Their bodies handle drugs differently, so the dose, form, and how you give medicine matter. This page gives simple, practical advice you can use today: how to dose by weight, smart inhaler tips, safe over-the-counter choices, and when to call a doctor.

Safe dosing and administration

Always dose by weight when possible. Pediatric doctors and drug labels use mg/kg for a reason — two kids who look the same can need different amounts. Use an accurate scale at the clinic and keep a written chart of your child’s weight and current dose.

Use the right delivery tool. Never use kitchen teaspoons. Give liquid medicine with the syringe or dropper that comes in the package. For infants, aim the syringe to the side of the mouth so they swallow slowly. For older kids, talk them through it and praise them after — it helps a lot.

Avoid adult-strength pills unless your doctor says so. Crushing tablets or splitting pills can change how fast the drug works. If swallowing is hard, ask the pharmacist if the medicine comes in a liquid, chewable tablet, or a dissolvable form.

Be cautious with OTC meds. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are common for fever and pain, but they have clear age and weight rules. Never give both together unless your pediatrician instructs it, and never give aspirin to children because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome.

Breathing, infections, seizures — practical points

For kids with asthma, inhalers plus a spacer make a huge difference. A spacer holds the medicine so more reaches the lungs. Many parents think one puff is enough — usually it isn’t. Follow the inhaler plan your clinician gives and practice spacer technique at home.

Antibiotics need the right choice and full course. Stopping early can let infections return stronger. If your child is allergic to one antibiotic, tell the prescriber every time — even if the reaction was years ago.

If your child has seizures or takes medicines like Dilantin (phenytoin), keep a list of all drugs and supplements. Some foods and medicines change levels of seizure drugs. Regular blood tests and a steady routine help keep levels where they should be.

Watch for side effects. New rashes, unusual sleepiness, or behavior changes need immediate attention. Keep a symptom log for the doctor — it helps find patterns fast.

Buying medicines online? Stick to reputable pharmacies and never buy prescription drugs without a valid prescription. Read pharmacy reviews, check for clear contact info, and prefer sites that require a prescription and have a licensed pharmacist available.

When in doubt, call your pediatrician or nurse line. Quick advice can prevent ER visits. If your child has trouble breathing, severe drowsiness, a stiff neck, or seizures that don’t stop, get emergency care right away.

Small steps—measuring carefully, using a spacer, finishing antibiotics, and checking online pharmacy legitimacy—make medicine safer for kids. Keep a simple meds list in your phone and update it after every visit. That little habit saves time and worry when a new question comes up.